1. Introduction 

1.1 NCAA member institutions adopted drug-testing in 1986. Initially, this legislation established a drug-testing program for NCAA championships and post-season certified events, established disciplinary action for student-athletes who tested “positive” in accordance with the testing methods authorized by the NCAA Executive Committee, and established disciplinary action for staff members who had knowledge of the use of banned substances by student-athletes. 

1.2 Subsequently, the NCAA authorized year-round testing for student-athletes in Divisions I and II. The NCCU Drug Education/Testing Program is separate and distinct from the NCAA program (including without limitation, any sanctions). Although a positive test result in the NCAA program will count as a positive under the NCCU program, any positive under the NCCU program will not count as a positive under the NCAA program. NCCU may amend the Drug Education/Testing Program at any time as may be deemed necessary. 

2. Purpose/Scope  

2.1 The NCCU Athletics Department Drug Education/Testing Program has been developed to assist our student-athletes in bringing about a drug-free lifestyle. The specific objectives of this program include: 

2.2 To prevent any drug abuse (or misuse) by NCCU student-athletes and to educate them concerning the associated problems of drug abuse. 

2.3 To identify any NCCU student-athletes that may be abusing drugs and identify the drug. 

2.4 To establish any necessary treatment, counseling, and education for any NCCU student-athlete identified as a drug abuser. 

2.5 To safeguard the health and safety of the student-athlete. 

3. Education and Consent 

3.1 As part of this program, the Athletics Department will provide educational programs, information and activities to prevent drug abuse and promote a healthy lifestyle.  All student-athletes are subject to drug testing from the day they arrive on campus and should attend all drug education programs. 

3.2 A vital part of the program is drug screening of all NCCU student-athletes. On an annual basis a presentation is made to the athletic squads explaining the purposes and procedures of the drug screening program. Each academic year, all student-athletes will be asked to sign a NCCU consent form wherein the student-athlete agrees to be randomly tested for the use of drugs prohibited by the NCAA banned drug list. The consent must be signed annually prior to the student’s participation in intercollegiate competition. If at any time a student-athlete is selected for a drug test and refuses to participate, it will count as a positive drug test. If the testing center indicates that the student-athlete tampered with the drug test specimen, it will count as a positive drug test. 

3.3 Alcohol, Tobacco and Drug Education  

3.3.1 Student-athletes who are educated about substance use in sport are more likely to make informed and intelligent decisions about usage. Therefore, the Athletics Department will conduct a substance use and abuse education program at least twice a year. These programs will be designed to review individual team, athletic department, institutional, conference and NCAA alcohol, tobacco and other drug policies. Appropriate educational materials, including this Policy as well as the list of banned drug classes, will be given to student-athletes. All student-athletes will be required to attend the educational sessions. Make-up sessions are available for those individuals who must miss a scheduled educational session for an approved reason.  

3.3.2 Sessions will include a review of NCAA alcohol, tobacco and drug policies including the tobacco ban, list of banned drug classes, testing protocol, and viewing the NCAA drug-education and drug-testing video. Dietary supplements, their nutritional weaknesses and associated health risks, will be discussed. Time will be allowed for questions from student-athletes. Educational programs may be specially arranged to provide student-athletes the opportunity to learn more about specific dangers of substance use and abuse.  

3.4 Alcohol Policy

3.4.1 NCCU does not condone the illegal or otherwise irresponsible use of alcohol. It is the responsibility of every member of the university community to know the risks associated with alcohol use and abuse. Possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages by individuals under the age of 21 is a violation of North Carolina liquor laws and NCCU policy. Likewise, it is illegal for anyone to supply alcoholic beverages to persons under the age of 21. Violations of the NCCU alcohol policy and related NCCU and sport-specific policies will result in sanctions as established under those policies.  

3.5 Tobacco Policy

3.5.1 The NCAA, pursuant to NCAA Bylaws 11.1.5 and 17.1.8, prohibits the use of tobacco products, including spit and chewing tobacco, by all game personnel (e.g., student-athletes, coaches, athletic trainers, managers and game officials) in all sports during practice and competition. NCCU will uphold and enforce this policy. Game officials for every sport will uphold and enforce this policy as established by their respective sport committees.  

3.6 Dietary Supplements  

3.6.1 NCCU Athletics Department personnel are precluded from distributing or encouraging the use of any dietary supplements or ergogenic aids, unless prescribed the team physician. Dietary supplements and ergogenic aids may contain banned drugs. The labeling of dietary supplements may not be accurate or may be misleading. Terms such as “healthy” or “all natural” do not mean dietary supplements are free from banned drugs or are safe to take. Dietary supplements may not only be detrimental to your health but also may cause a positive drug test.  

3.6.2 Student-athletes must keep the athletic training staff and/or team physician aware of all prescribed drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins and/or dietary supplements that he or she intend to take or may be taking. While the student-athlete may review the products with the Head Athletic Trainer and Team Physician, the student-athlete is ultimately responsible for deciding whether to take the product and accepting any health or other consequences (e.g., a positive drug test result). Student-athletes also are encouraged to contact The National Center for Drug Free Sport (Drug Free Sport) and/or their own physicians with any and all questions or concerns regarding banned drugs, dietary supplements, or any other substances. Student-athletes, coaches, and athletics staff may contact Drug Free Sport’s Dietary Supplement Resource Exchange Center (REC) at:  

REC Hotline: 1-877-202-0769  

Website: https://dfsaxis.com/users/login Password: ncaa1

3.7 Who is Subject to Drug Testing? 

3.7.1 Student-athletes with eligibility remaining, or those continuing on scholarships or currently receiving compensation from the NCCU Athletic Department, will be subject to testing for those banned substances listed hereafter. Graduate assistant coaches, graduate assistant trainers or graduate assistants assigned to a team, student  managers,  student  coaches,  and  student  trainers  who  may  or  may   not   be receiving compensation from the NCCU Athletic Department will also be subject to random testing or reasonable suspicion testing in accordance with the procedures set out in this program.  

3.7.2 Random testing of student-athletes will be conducted throughout the year (in season, and out-of-season), with the selection of student-athletes made randomly from squad lists. Notification of such random selection, and the time and place for conducting the test, shall be given to the student-athlete by Compliance. Please Note: NCCU has a no notification policy for drug testing. 

3.7.3 Student-athletes may also be tested if there exists a “reasonable suspicion” that the individual is using banned drugs. The determination of reasonable suspicion shall be made by a Coach, the Athletics Director, the team physician or the Head Athletic Trainer (“Athletics Department Personnel”). Such individuals have the responsibility to make a determination if there is reasonable suspicion that the student-athlete is using banned drugs, and they shall document any observation concerning the appearance, behavior, physical changes, attitude changes, or absences from class, meetings or practices. There may be a variety of observations that may lead to a determination of reasonable suspicion, including information gathered from other sources. Observations leading to a determination of reasonable suspicion include, but are not limited to: Mood swings; Loss of interest in school, sports and practice; Increased number of tardies and absences from practice; Increased aggressiveness; Severe facial and body acne; Weight loss or weight gain; Erratic behavior; Disorientation and confusion; Impaired short-term memory; Or any other actions, behavior or observations that the Athletics Department personnel believe create a reasonable suspicion of drug use. 

3.7.4 Once the determination of reasonable suspicion is reported to the Compliance Office, the student-athlete shall be requested to promptly submit a urine sample for testing. 

3.7.5 When multiple, positive tests have been reported on a team, the Coach may request team testing on a regular basis. 

3.7.6 A positive drug test obtained as a result of testing by the NCAA will count as a positive in the NCCU drug testing program. The penalties for lost playing time in the NCCU program will run concurrently with the NCAA penalties for loss of playing time. 

3.7.7 Student-athletes being tested shall submit a urine specimen at such time and place as directed by Compliance. The primary method of testing is urine drug testing; however blood, serum, or hair may be used. 

3.7.8 A qualified laboratory has been selected to provide collection, chain of custody procedures and analysis of the urine or other specimen. All positive tests indicating the presence of a banned substance and/or metabolite of such a substance must be confirmed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry by the laboratory. 

3.7.9 The laboratory shall report its findings to the Assistant Director of Athletics for Compliance. Upon receipt of a positive test, the Compliance Officer is required to report that positive test to the Athletic Director and Faculty Athletics Representative to insure appropriate institutional control of drug testing procedures. Only the Athletics Director, Faculty Athletics Representative, Head Coach, Head Athletic Trainer, Team Physicians, Senior Woman Administrator, and the student- athlete’s parents or guardian will be made aware of the results of the drug test. All questions about the results of the drug test must be addressed to the Athletics Director and the Athletics Director will be the sole respondent. The Assistant Director of Athletics for Compliance will notify the student-athlete within 72 hours (if possible) after receipt of positive test results. 

4. SPECIMEN COLLECTION PROCEDURES 

4.1 The student-athlete must bring a photo ID with them to the testing site to certify identification of the student-athlete. 

4.2 Protocol from the Center for Drug Free Sports is listed in the Appendix to this policy. 

5. NCAA BANNED-DRUG CLASSES

5.1 NCAA BANNED-DRUG CLASSES (for which NCCU may test): NCCU student- athletes are prohibited from the use of any drug substance banned by the NCAA. The complete list of drugs and related substances banned by the NCAA is updated periodically and is available at http://www.ncaa.org . (Click on Education Programs and then click on Drug Testing Program). The list is also available from the NCCU Athletic Training Staff. Drug categories banned include stimulants, anabolic steroids, diuretics, street drugs, peptide hormones and analogues, releasing factors (erythropoietin and sermorelin), and related compounds. 

The term “related substances” as used herein comprises substances that are included in the class by their pharmacological action and/or chemical structure. No substance belonging to the prohibited class may be used, regardless of whether it is specifically listed as an example. NCAA rules prohibit the use of tobacco products by all student-athletes and game personnel (e.g., coaches, trainers, managers and game officials) in all sports during practice and competition. 

5.2 NCCU may provide only non-muscle-building nutritional supplements to a student-athlete at any time for the purpose of providing additional calories and electrolytes, provided the supplements do not contain any NCAA banned substances. At the fall certification meetings, student-athletes are required to list all nutritional supplements they are currently consuming. (See attached Student-Athlete Nutritional Supplement Disclosure and Review Form.) 

5.3 The possession, consumption, sale and/or distribution of controlled and illegal substances (consistent with federal, state or local laws and NCAA rules) are strictly prohibited.  

Prohibited Drugs/Substances include but are not limited to: Amphetamine/Methamphetamine; Cocaine metabolite; Marijuana metabolite; Opiates; PCP; Benzodiazepines; Barbiturates; Methadone; Propoxyphene; Methylphenidate;  Ephedrine; Oxycodone; Ecstasy; Ethanol; and Anabolic Agents.

5.3.1 The NCAA Banned Drug-Classes are: Stimulants; Anabolic Agents; Alcohol and Beta Blockers; Diuretics and Other Masking Agents; Street Drugs; Peptide Hormones and Analogues; Anti-Estrogens;

and Beta-2 Agonists.

5.3.2 The possession or use of prescription drugs without a valid medical prescription and use of substances for purposes or in manners not as directed is prohibited.  

5.3.3 Possession, consumption, sale and/or distribution of synthetic cannabinoids, such as Spice (also known as K2), is prohibited.  

5.3.4 Possession, consumption, sale and and/or distribution of synthetic stimulants, such as "bath salts" (also known as Cloud 9, White Dove, Hurricane Charlie, White Lightning) is prohibited. Normal bathing salts are permitted.  

5.3.5 Students may not use or possess drug paraphernalia, including but not limited to hookahs and other smoking devices, weights, scales, and rolling papers. 

5.3.6 Students may not be in the presence of or contributing to the possession, sale or use of prohibited, controlled or illegal substances, to include the sharing of illegal substances or prescription medications.  

5.3.7 Misbehaving or causing disruption as a result of drug use on or in university property, or at functions sponsored by the university or by a recognized university organization is prohibited.  

5.3.8 Students found responsible of any offense involving the possession or sale of a controlled substance may also be deemed ineligible to receive financial aid.  

5.3.9 Nutritional/Dietary Supplements are not well regulated and may cause a positive drug test. Many dietary supplements are contaminated with banned drugs NOT listed on the label. Any product containing a dietary supplement ingredient is taken at your own risk. Prior to taking any nutritional/dietary supplement, please contact your team athletic trainer or contact the Resource Exchange Center: www.drugfreesports.com/rec.  

6. Self-Referral Policy 

Self-referrals play a significant role in the educational aspect of our program for those student-athletes who are honest and desire to make a positive life change. If a student-athlete makes the decision to self-report drug use, prior to a request from the Department to report for testing, a positive drug test will not be charged against the student-athlete. 

Individuals utilizing the self-referral option will be referred by the Athletic Department to a substance abuse professional for assessment as to the severity of the problem, and for an appropriate program of treatment, to include frequent drug testing. 

Parameters of Self-Referral Process: 

6.1 Self-referrals are a one-time opportunity, and can only be utilized prior to the notification of a drug screening. 

6.2 No penalty will be assessed for positive test. 

6.3 The student-athlete will receive immediate treatment for drug problem. 

6.4 The student-athlete must satisfactorily complete the prescribed treatment program. 

6.5 During the course of treatment, the student-athlete will be subjected to frequent drug screening. The outcome from the screening should be consistent with the counselor’s expectations according to the treatment plan. However, any presence of a drug different than that for which the student-athlete was referred will result in a recorded positive test. 

6.6 Upon official release from the treatment program, the student-athlete will be subject to frequent drug testing. If any substance is detected, a positive test will result. 

7. Consequences of Positive Test/Violation of the Policy 

7.1 First Offense** (see section IV for persons notified of positive results). All Teams (in-season and out-of-season):  When a student-athlete has a first time failure of a drug test/violation defined by this policy, the following steps must be taken in full prior to returning to competition/practice/workouts:        

7.1.1 The student-athlete is required to meet with the Counseling Center for an evaluation and to participate in the prevention/education program prescribed. If individual counseling is recommended by the Counseling Center staff, the student athlete is required to follow through with that recommendation to remain eligible. This program must be initiated before the student-athlete will be able to return to their athletic team. If the student-athlete discontinues the treatment/counseling program, they will be suspended indefinitely until the conclusion of their treatment/counseling program.  Completion of the program must be in writing from Counseling Center to the Drug Testing Coordinator. The student-athlete is required to complete 20 hours of Community Service within 30 days, after being notified of a positive test.  The student-athlete will call their parent or legal guardians in the present of their Head Coach and or sport administrator. Also the parent or legal guardians will be sent written notification of the positive test. Head coaches have the right to cancel athletic aid, and/or remove the student-athlete from the team permanently.  

7.1.2 Once a student-athlete tests positive, the student-athlete will be required to be tested at all subsequent random drug test. 

7.2 Second Offense** (see section IV for persons notified of positive results). All Teams (in-season and out-of-season):  When a student-athlete has a second failure of a drug test/violation defined by this policy, the following steps must be taken in full prior to returning to competition/practice/workouts: 

7.2.1  The student-athlete will be suspended from active participation for 10% of their playing season.  These contests may carry-over to the following season in the event that less than 10% of the events remain at the time of the positive test or the student-athlete fails a test in their off-season.   In the event that there are an odd number of events during the season, the suspension will be rounded down. For example, in an 11 game season the student athlete will be suspended for 1 game. During this time the student athlete must attend all team practices, meetings, weight lifting and condition sessions during their suspension. In the event that the failure occurs during the team’s off-season, the student athlete the same suspension will apply.  Off-season contest do not count toward their suspension. For example, a football player that fails during the spring cannot count the spring football game as their one event.

7.2.2  The student-athlete is required to meet with the Counseling Center for a more intensive session evaluation and recommendations. If individual counseling is recommended by the Counseling Center staff, the student athlete is required to follow through with that recommendation to remain eligible. The student-athlete must make an appointment with in a week of being notified.  If the student-athlete does not start or discontinues the treatment/counseling program, they will be suspended indefinitely until the conclusion of their treatment/counseling program.  Completion of the program must be in writing from the Counseling Center staff and given to the Drug Testing Coordinator.

7.2.3  The student-athlete is required to complete 40 hours of Community Service within 60 days, after been notified of a positive test. 

7.2.4 The student-athlete will call their parent or legal guardians in the present of their Head Coach and or sport administrator. Also the parent or legal guardians will be sent written notification of the positive test.  

7.2.5 Head coaches have the right to cancel athletic aid, and/or remove the student-athlete from the team permanently. 

7.3 Third Offense** (see section IV for persons notified of positive results). All Teams (in-season and out-of-season):  When a student-athlete has a third failure of a drug test/violation defined by this policy, the following steps must be taken in full prior to returning to competition/practice/workouts: 

7.3.1  The student-athlete will be suspended from active participation for up to 50% of their playing season.  These contests may carry-over to the following season in the event that less than 50% of the events remain at the time of the positive test or the student-athlete fails a test in their off-season.   In the event that there are an odd number of events during the season, the suspension will be rounded down. For example, in an 11 game season the student athlete will be suspended for five games. During this time the student athlete must attend all team practices, meetings, weight lifting and condition sessions during their suspension. In the event that the failure occurs during the team’s off-season, the student athlete the same suspension will apply.  Off-season contest do not count toward their suspension. For example, a football player that fails during the spring cannot count the spring football game as one of their five events.  

7.3.2  The student-athlete is required to meet with the Counseling Center for a more intensive session evaluation and recommendations. If individual counseling is recommended by the Counseling Center staff, the student athlete is required to follow through with that recommendation to remain eligible. The student-athlete must make an appointment with in a week of being notified.  If the student-athlete does not start or discontinues the treatment/counseling program, they will be suspended indefinitely until the conclusion of their treatment/counseling program.  Completion of the program must be in writing from the Counseling Center staff and given to the Drug Testing Coordinator. 

7.3.3 The student-athlete is required to complete 50 hours of Community Service within 60 days, after been notified of a positive test.

7.3.4 The student-athlete will call their parent or legal guardians in the present of their Head Coach and or sport administrator. Also the parent or legal guardians will be sent written notification of the positive test.

7.3.5 Head coaches have the right to cancel athletic aid, and/or remove the student-athlete from the team permanently. 

7.3.6 The student-athlete will have to complete a public service announcement for the Athletic Department. 

7.4 Fourth Offense**  A fourth offense will result in dismissal from athletics participation.  All athletic aid will be canceled and the student-athlete will be removed from all athletic privileges including housing.  

The student-athlete will call their parent or legal guardians in the present of their Head Coach and or sport administrator. The parent or legal guardian will also be sent written notification of the positive test.  

8. Conditions of Suspension 

8.1 The student-athlete’s suspension will take effect during the team’s competitive season, including post-season and NCAA competition. The suspended events will be for the next consecutive events in the schedule, extending into the next season if applicable. 

8.2 Student-athletes who are on suspension will be allowed to practice, but not be allowed to participate in intercollegiate competition or other events that surround the competition. 

8.3 Suspension from competition will occur while the student-athlete is enrolled at NCCU. All suspensions will be served during the student-athlete’s playing status. They will not be allowed to dress out, sit on the bench, be in the team area during competition, travel to away contests, have pre-game meals or be in the pre- or post-game locker room. 

9. Appeals (Can I Appeal the Results? )

9.1 Appealing Any Positive Test/Violation of This Policy 

9.1.1 A student-athlete may appeal a positive test/violation of this policy by requesting a hearing by the athletic department drug testing committee. This request must be in writing and a copy given to the Drug Testing Coordinator. The request must be made within three (3) business days (Monday thru Friday) following the written notification from the Drug Testing Coordinator of failure of a drug test/violation of this policy. The drug testing committee will have four (4) business (M-F) days to schedule a meeting and that meeting must be held within six (6) business days (M-F). 

9.1.2 Students will submit a letter explaining the reason he/she believes the positive test is either inaccurate, or that the test should not count against him/her for the Committee to review at the hearing. A ruling must be made at the end of the meeting and put in writing to the Student-Athlete, Head Coach, Counseling Services, Chancellor, Associate AD for Internal Operations/SWA, Sports Information Director, Drug Testing Coordinator, parents, and Head Athletic Trainer. The student-athlete remains suspended during the appeal process. 

9.2 Appealing the Drug Testing Committee’s Ruling 

9.2.1 A student-athlete may appeal the drug testing committee’s ruling. This appeal is to the Athletic Director. A written request for an appeal must be made within three (3) business days of the drug testing committee ruling and a copy given to the Athletics Director and the Drug Testing Coordinator. The Athletic Director will then have three (3) days to meet with the student-athlete and render a decision. The ruling will be put in writing to the Athlete, Head Coach, Chancellor, Counseling Services, Associate AD for Internal Operations/SWA, Sports Information Director, Drug Testing Coordinator, parents, and Head Athletic Trainer. 

9.3 Appealing the Athletic Director’s Ruling 

9.3.1 A student-athlete may appeal the Athletic Director’s ruling. This appeal is to the Chancellor. A written request for an appeal must be made within three (4) business days of the drug testing committee ruling and a copy given to the Athletics Director and the Drug Testing Coordinator. The Chancellor will then have three (6) days to meet with the student-athlete and render a decision. The Chancellor’s decision is final. The ruling will be put in writing to the Athlete, Head Coach, Chancellor, Counseling Services, Associate AD for Internal Operations/SWA, Sports Information Director, Drug Testing Coordinator, parents, and Head Athletic Trainer.] 

10. Alcohol 

10.1 The use of alcohol impedes the ability of a student-athlete to achieve optimal performance levels. NCCU does not support underage drinking, irresponsible use of alcohol or alcohol-related behavior that leads to involvement with the criminal justice system. NCCU and North Carolina law restrict the use of alcohol. Student-athletes should refer to the NCCU University Code of Conduct for further information on these restrictions. 

10.2 Student-athletes who consume alcohol will be held accountable for any alcohol-related incident in which they are involved on or off campus.  In such cases, the student-athlete is subject to NCCU or team disciplinary action depending upon whether or not the incident results in legal action. 

The student-athlete may also be subject to University sanctions as out lined in the Student Code of Conduct. If the incident does not result in legal action, the coach of that team will recommend to that team’s sports supervisor the appropriate course of action. If the student- athlete is charged, convicted or pleads guilty to an incident involving the legal system, the course of action will follow NCCU’s protocol for addressing violations of the Department’s Standard of Conduct. 

10.3 Alcohol incidents involving the legal system include, but are not limited to: Driving under the influence (DUI/DWI) or other motor vehicle violations involving alcohol; Public Intoxication; Drunk and disorderly conduct; Minor in possession of alcoholic beverage; and Possession of a false identification card. 

10.4 Student-athletes are subject to university sanctions for conduct associated with the irresponsible use/possession of alcohol. If an incident is reported to the University, and sanctions are subsequently imposed, NCCU will review and determine whether further sanctions/requirements will be imposed. 

10.5Possible Sanctions/Requirements in Response to Alcohol Violations Education Counseling include: Suspension of team privileges and/or Suspension/separation from the team. Parents/legal guardians of the student-athlete will be informed of all incidents involving irresponsible or illegal use of alcohol. 

11. NCCU Medical Alcohol Amnesty Policy (MAAP) 

11.1 NCCU’s MAAP states:  “Anyone who receives emergency medical attention for alcohol consumption, or seeks assistance for someone in an alcohol-related emergency will not be charged with violations of university alcohol-related policies. No one may receive protection under this policy more than once in a two-year period.” NCCU acknowledges, and supports this policy. However, since the Department’s alcohol policy focuses upon education and support, those aspects of the offense schedule related to counseling, and informing parents/guardians will be retained. 

Student-athletes should note that the university policy does not provide a defense from criminal charges that may ensue from the alcohol-related behavior. 

12. Sanctions for Substance Abuse, Discipline and the Appeal Process 

12.1 Any student-athlete who violates the drug and alcohol policy is subject to the corrective actions and guidelines within this policy. Any student disciplined under the drug and alcohol policy has the right to appeal and to a hearing before the designee of the direct of athletics. A request for appeal must be made in writing within five calendar days after notification of discipline. 

12.2 Students are reminded that many of the drugs and most of the behaviors addressed in the substance abuse policy are illegal. Conduct involving illegal drug use or abuse may subject a student-athlete to criminal prosecution separate and apart from disciplinary action pursuant to the University’s student code of conduct. 

12.3 Association with drug-related activity in a manner detrimental to the best interests of NCCU is strictly forbidden. Moreover, involvement in the criminal justice system for a drug-related offense will be taken into account in disciplinary action imposed by the NCCU. Such involvement may also serve as an independent basis for discipline, outside the drug policies outlined above. 

12.4 The president of the University receives an annual report summarizing the results of the drug- testing program. The faculty athletics representative receives a comprehensive report on a monthly basis, the contents of which are strictly confidential. 

13. NCAA Drug Policy 

13.1 NCAA Drug Tests

13.1.1 The NCAA conducts random tests for steroids and “street drugs” at bowl games and NCAA championship events.  The NCAA has also instituted a summer drug testing policy where 

student-athletes may be tested wherever they are spending their summer. It is the responsibility of their university to provide the NCAA with contact information. 

13.1.2 A positive test will result in the loss of eligibility for the remainder of the current year and will end one calendar year after the student-athlete’s positive drug test. If a student- athlete tests positive, eligibility must be restored by the NCAA. After a one-season penalty a subsequent drug test will follow to make sure the student-athlete is negative. A second positive test by the NCAA will result in a loss of all remaining eligibility for all sports. 

13.2 NCAA Mandate on Documentation of ADHD Medications 

13.2.1 Effective August 1, 2009, the NCAA requires strict documentation procedures for student- athletes seeking a medical exception due to their regular use of a medication that contains a banned substance that could lead to a failed drug test (such as those medications taken to treat ADHD). Failure to have the appropriate documentation on file can lead to the student-athlete being charged with a positive drug test. Student-athletes must contact NCCU Student Disability Services for documentation requirements. Student-athletes are also encouraged to discuss this with their athletic trainer and academic advisor. 

13.3 NCAA Tobacco Products 

13.3.1 The use of tobacco products is prohibited in all sports during practice and competition for all student-athletes, coaches and game personnel. A student-athlete who uses tobacco products during practice or competition will be disqualified for the remainder of that practice or competition (NCAA Bylaw 17.1.8). 

13.3.2 The NCCU program is consistent with applicable NCAA policies. To the extent permitted by law, information obtained in the operation of the program is confidential. 

13.4 NCAA’s View on Nutritional Supplements 

13.5 The NCAA Drug Education and Drug Testing Subcommittee (DEDT) has issued numerous memorandums to NCAA members regarding the risks involved with the use of nutritional supplements. Despite these efforts, the DEDT notes a significant number of positive drug tests. The DEDT is issuing this advisory to reemphasize the warning about the risks involved in the use of nutritional supplements. The environment for today’s student-athlete is filled with easy access to products which are legally available over-the- counter but contain substances banned by the NCAA. Many student-athletes assume if these products can be purchased at a health food store, they must be allowed under NCAA rules. THIS IS NOT TRUE! Reliance on the advice of the clerk at the store, the distributor at the gym, or anyone who is not with the student-athlete’s athletic program, has resulted in erroneous information about whether the product contains any NCAA- banned substance. This false information sometimes results in a positive drug test for banned ingredients contained in the product. Appeals based on this argument have not been successful in overturning a positive drug-test penalty. Some common nutritional supplements are creatine, DHEA, androstenedione, 19- norandrostenedione glucosamine, ma huang (ephedrine), amino acids and ginseng. Many fat burners and weight-gain products contain nutritional supplements. Nutritional supplements can come in pill, powder, liquid and bars. Some are NCAA-banned substances and some are not.  Most are legal and may be obtained at grocery stores, pharmacies, health food stores, on the Internet and almost anywhere. Student-athletes who test positive for illegal supplements are subject to a one-year suspension and loss of eligibility. 

14. CRIMINAL OFFENSES INVOLVING DRUGS AND ALCOHOL 

14.1 Any student-athlete involved in an alcohol or drug-related incident will be subject to immediate investigation. Drug and alcohol related incidents would include but are not limited to: driving under the influence (DUI), public intoxication, underage consumption of alcohol, fights, disturbances, domestic violence, trafficking in controlled substances, campus appearance ticket from the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities, or other activities prohibited by local, state or federal law. 

14.2 It is the responsibility of the student-athlete involved in the incident to report the matter immediately to his/her Head Coach who will immediately make a report to the Director of   Athletics. Failure of the student-athlete to report the incident is itself a violation and subject to sanctions. The Director of Athletics is required to report to the Faculty Athletics Representative. 

14.3 The Investigations for all criminal offenses involving drugs and alcohol shall consist of the Chair of the Drug Testing/Drug Education Committee, Associate AD for Internal Operations/SWA and/or the FAR. The Director of Athletics will inform the student-athlete of the findings and recommendations of the completion of the investigation. 

14.4 Any student-athlete charged with DUI will receive an immediate temporary suspension from all competitions pending a preliminary investigation. The charge will be investigated immediately. If the charge appears to have merit the penalties may range from suspension to loss of scholarship and will be considered a positive drug test. If the charge does not appear to have merit the temporary suspension will be lifted. 

14.5 All criminal offenses involving drugs and alcohol will be immediately evaluated and penalties recommended as appropriate for the incident. The investigation and possible penalties are separate and apart from any criminal prosecution resulting from the incident. In most cases, the investigation and penalties would occur well in advance of the legal disposition of the matter. 

14.6 If a student-athlete is found responsible for a charge of alcohol or drugs possession, usage, or attempt to sell by the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities, that student-athlete will be included in all further drug tests conducted by NCCU. 

15. APPENDIX 

15.1 College/University: Urine Collection Guidelines for Clients:

15.1.1 Only those persons authorized by the client representative and certified collector will be allowed in the collection room. The certified collector and client representative will determine the release of a selected student-athlete from the collection room prior to completing the specimen collection process.  

15.2 Upon arrival, student-athlete will provide photo identification and/or a client representative will identify the student-athlete. The student-athlete will then print his/her name and arrival time on the Roster Sign-In Form.  

15.3 The student-athlete will select a Custody & Control Form (CCF) from a supply of such and work with collector and client representative to complete necessary information before proceeding with the specimen collection process.  

15.4 The student-athlete will select a specimen collection beaker from a supply of such and will be escorted by a collector (same gender) to the restroom to provide a specimen. The student-athlete will place a unique barcode onto the beaker. And then rinse his/her hands with water and then dry hands.  

15.5 The collector will directly observe the furnishing of the urine specimen to assure the integrity of the specimen.  

15.6 The student-athlete will be responsible for keeping the collection beaker closed and controlled.  

15.7 Fluids and food given to student-athletes who have difficulty voiding must be from sealed containers (approved by the collector) that are opened and consumed in the station. These items must be free of any other banned substances.  

15.8 If the specimen is incomplete, the student-athlete must remain in the collection station until the sample is completed. During this period, the student-athlete is responsible for keeping the collection beaker closed and controlled.  

15.9 If the specimen is incomplete and the student-athlete must leave the collection station for a reason approved by the certified collector and client representative, specimen must be discarded.  

15.10 Upon return to the collection room, the student-athlete will begin the collection procedure again.  

15.11 Once an adequate volume specimen is provided; the collector will escort the student-student-athlete to the specimen processing table.  

15.12 The specimen collector will instruct the student-athlete to closely observe the specimen processing steps and will then measure the specific gravity.  

15.13 If the urine has a specific gravity below 1.005, no value will be recorded on the CCF and the specimen will be discarded by the student-athlete with the collector observing. The student-athlete must remain in the collection station until another specimen is provided. The student-athlete will provide another specimen.  

15.14 If the urine is concentrated (1.005 SG or higher), the specimen processor will record the specific gravity value on the CCF and then measure the urine’s pH If in range (4.5-7.5 inclusive), the specimen processor will record the pH value on the CCF in the appropriate area. If the student-athlete has a pH greater than 7.5 or less than 4.5, the specimen will be discarded by the student-athlete with the collector observing. The student-athlete must remain in the collection station until another specimen is provided. The student-athlete will provide another specimen.  

15.15 Once the specimen processor has determined the specimen has a specific gravity above 1.005 and a pH between 4.5 and 7.5 inclusive, the sample will be processed and sent to the laboratory.  

15.16 If the laboratory determines that a student-athlete’s sample is inadequate for analysis, at the client’s discretion, another sample may be collected.  

15.17 If a student-athlete is suspected of manipulating specimens (e.g., via dilution, substitution), the collector will collect another specimen from the student-athlete.  

15.18 Once a specimen has been provided that meets the on-site specific gravity and pH parameters, the student-athlete will select a sample collection kit from a supply of such.  

15.19 The specimen processor will open the kit, demonstrate to the student-athlete the vials are securely sealed, open the plastic, and open the A vial lid. The processor will pour the urine into the A and B vials and close the lids. The specimen processor should pour urine into vials above the minimum volume level (35 mL in A vial; 15 mL in B vial) and pour as much urine as possible into vials using care not to exceed the maximum levels (90 mL in A vial; 60 mL in B vial).  

15.20 The specimen processor will securely close the lids on each vial and then seal each vial using the vial seals attached to the CCF; assuring seals are tightly adhered to the vials with no tears or loose areas.  

15.21 The specimen processor must then collect all necessary signatures (collector, donor, witness, and collector/specimen processor) and dates/times where indicated on the CCF.  

15.22 The specimen processor will place the laboratory copy of the CCF in the back pouch of the plastic bag and the vials the front pouch of the same bag. The bag should then be sealed. The sealed bag with vials will then be placed in the sample box. The box will then be sealed.  

15.23 The student-athlete is then released by the collector.  

15.24 All sealed samples will be secured in a shipping case. The collector will prepare the case for forwarding. When two split samples are collected and packaged, care must be taken to assure one sample is placed in the shipping container for shipment to the “drugs of abuse” laboratory and one sample is placed in the shipping container for shipment to the “anabolic steroids” laboratory.  

15.25 After the collection has been completed, the samples will be forwarded to the laboratory and copies of any forms forwarded to the designated persons.  

15.26 The samples become the property of the client.  

15.27 If the student-athlete does not comply with the collection process, the collector will notify the client representative and Drug Free Sport.  

15.28 If a student requires NCAA Medical Exception Documentation Reporting Form to Support the Diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Treatment with Banned Stimulant Medication, complete the linked form and turn in to the athletic department.